Willis Hale was a lieutenant in the Philippine Constabulary from 1913 until 1917, when he was commissioned as a U.S. Army Infantry officer. After serving in the Army Air Forces in World War II, he transferred to the U.S. Air Force when it became a separate branch of service in 1947. He retired in 1952 as a U.S. Air Force Major General.
Sponsored by:
Willis
Henry
Hale
January 7, 1893
–
March 24, 1961
Awards Received
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Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
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Army Distinguished Service Medal
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Navy Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Legion of Merit
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Legion of Merit
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Air Force Distinguished Service Medal
Department of the Air Force, General Orders No. 44 (November 12, 1952)(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Medal (Air Force) to Major General Willis Henry Hale (AFSN: 19A), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Major General Hale culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country and his dedicated contributions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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Army Distinguished Service Medal
Service:
United States Army Air ForcesRank:
Major GeneralRegiment:
VII Bomber CommandDivision:
7th Air ForceAction Date:
June 1 – 8, 1942
War Department General Orders No. 58 (October 29, 1942)The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Major General Willis H. Hale (ASN: 19A), United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility. As Commanding General, VII Bomber Command, SEVENTH Air Force, during the Battle of Midway Island, on 1 – 8 June 1942. General Hale exhibited brilliant strategic concepts under adverse conditions in the use of heavy bombardment airplanes against naval forces. Despite the necessity of operating from a distant base, he so detailed the available airplanes as to maintain an effective striking force, which resulted in a decisive defeat of the enemy. His unceasing devotion to duty and inspiring leadership contributed materially to the outcome of that battle. The outstanding results obtained by the units of the VII Bomber Command were indicative of the high state of training maintained under the guidance of their commander. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Major General Hale and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.
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Navy Cross
Service:
United States Army Air ForcesRank:
Major GeneralDivision:
7th Air ForceAction Date:
April 20 – 23, 1943
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Major General Willis Henry Hale (ASN: 19A), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism and courageous devotion to duty as Commanding General of the SEVENTH Air Force, U.S. Army Air Forces, while leading a heavy Bombardment Squadron during attacks against strongly held enemy bases on Nauru Island and the Tarawa Island during the period 20 to 23 April 1943. Participating in a daring flight over enemy-controlled territory, Major General Hale led his squadron in a brilliantly executed bombing attack upon securely fortified enemy positions and succeeded in inflicting severe damage upon Japanese personnel and material. His forceful and inspiring leadership throughout a vital and hazardous mission, and his superior airmanship combined with the gallant fighting spirit of his command, reflect great credit upon the United States Armed Service.
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States Army Air ForcesRank:
Major GeneralRegiment:
VII Bomber CommandDivision:
7th Air ForceAction Date:
World War II
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major General Willis H. Hale (AFSN: 19A), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Commanding General, VII Bomber Command, SEVENTH Air Force, during World War II. His devotion to duty and courage under all conditions serve as an inspiration to his fellow flyers. His actions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.
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Legion of Merit
Service:
United States Army Air ForcesRank:
Major GeneralRegiment:
VII Bomber CommandDivision:
7th Air ForceAction Date:
World War II
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major General Willis H. Hale (AFSN: 19A), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding General, VII Bomber Command, SEVENTH Air Force, during World War II. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Hale and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.
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Legion of Merit
Service:
United States Army Air ForcesRank:
Major GeneralRegiment:
VII Bomber CommandDivision:
7th Air ForceAction Date:
World War II
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major General Willis H. Hale (AFSN: 19A), United States Army Air Forces, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit (Navy Award) for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding General, VII Bomber Command, SEVENTH Air Force, during World War II. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Hale and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.